RELATING TO CIVIL IDENTIFICATION CARDS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Cory Chun and 11 co-sponsors

House Bill 177 provides free civil identification cards to eligible Georgia residents, enhancing access for low-income individuals and promoting inclusivity in essential services.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.

#appropriations($) #civilidentificationcard #departmentoftransportation #freeofcharge

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HB 177
Introduced: January 29, 2025
Status: Received notice of appointment of House conferees (Hse. Com. No. 755)
Classification: Bill
Subject: Appropriations ($), Civil Identification Card, Department of Transportation, Free of Charge

House Bill 177 aims to amend Title 19 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, specifically addressing the provision of civil identification cards. The bill seeks to enhance accessibility to identification for residents, particularly those who may face barriers to obtaining such documents.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HB 177 is to ensure that civil identification cards are available free of charge to eligible individuals. This initiative is designed to promote inclusivity and facilitate access to essential services that require identification, thereby supporting the rights and needs of Georgia residents.

Key Provisions

Free Civil Identification Cards: The bill mandates that civil identification cards be provided at no cost to eligible individuals, removing financial barriers that may prevent access.

Department of Transportation Involvement: The Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) will be responsible for implementing the provisions of this bill, ensuring that the process for obtaining civil identification cards is streamlined and accessible.

Eligibility Criteria: While the bill outlines the provision of free identification cards, specific eligibility criteria for individuals seeking these cards will be established to ensure that the program effectively targets those in need.

Impact

Affected Individuals: The bill is expected to benefit a wide range of Georgia residents, particularly low-income individuals, the homeless, and others who may struggle to afford identification.

Administrative Changes: The DOT will need to adjust its processes to accommodate the provision of free identification cards, which may involve additional training for staff and updates to existing systems.

Procedural Timeline

January 29, 2025: Bill introduced and passed the first reading.

February 3, 2025: Bill read for the second time.

February 12, 2025: Favorably reported by the House Committee.

February 19, 2025: Passed/Adopted by the House.

April 2, 2025: Passed/Adopted by the Senate after amendments.

May 13, 2025: Signed by the Governor, becoming Act 189.

Effective Date: July 1, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 177 represents a significant step toward improving access to civil identification cards for Georgia residents. By eliminating the cost associated with obtaining these essential documents, the bill aims to foster greater inclusivity and support for vulnerable populations within the state. The successful implementation of this legislation will depend on the collaboration between the Georgia Department of Transportation and community organizations to ensure that eligible individuals are informed and able to access these services effectively.

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